Mini-Scleral Lens Workshop delivers expert insights and hands-on experience
The Australian College of Optometry (ACO) hosted a hands-on mini-scleral lens workshop on Sunday 27 July at its Carlton headquarters. This in-person event gave attendees the chance to refine their clinical skills and broaden their understanding of mini-scleral lens fitting and management.
On Sunday 27 July, the ACO hosted the Mini-Scleral Workshop – a half-day event designed to strengthen clinical confidence in fitting and managing mini-scleral lenses.
The program featured two expert-led lectures from Scott Panozza, Manager of Contact Lens Services at ACO Eye Health, and Shonit Jagmohan, Owner and Optometrist at Vision Camberwell. Together, they covered key concepts in mini-scleral practice, from foundational principles to advanced fitting strategies.
Scott opened with a presentation on patient suitability, corneal assessment, and the core steps of mini-scleral fitting. He explored initial lens selection, evaluation techniques, and shared practical advice on educating patients, lens care routines, and follow-up care.
Shonit followed with a focused session on addressing fitting challenges and improving long-term success rates. Drawing on his clinical experience, he discussed how adjusting key lens parameters can help overcome common issues and improve outcomes for patients.
The morning continued with an engaging panel discussion featuring Scott, Shonit, and representatives from workshop sponsor EyeSpace. Audience questions sparked in-depth conversation on a range of topics, including how to manage lens flexure and midday fogging, approaches to patient homecare, diagnostic techniques, and more.
In the final session, attendees participated in a practical fitting exercise, working in pairs to apply their knowledge in a supported, hands-on setting. This involved performing corneal topography, selecting and fitting diagnostic lenses, and role-playing the lens evaluation process. Facilitators provided guidance throughout to reinforce learning and answer individual questions.
The combination of clinical insights, real-world advice, and practical application made for a highly engaging workshop. Attendees appreciated the opportunity to sharpen their skills and deepen their understanding of this growing area of contact lens practice.
The ACO thanks our presenters, Scott and Shonit, as well as our sponsors EyeSpace and Good Opticals for their generous contributions to the day. As demand for advanced contact lens services continues to rise, workshops like this play a vital role in supporting optometrists to stay at the forefront of patient care.
Scott Panozza presenting 'Fitting Mini-Scleral Lenses with Confidence: Best Practices & Techniques'
Shonit Jagmohan presenting 'From First Fit to Follow-Up Fits & Fixes: A Practical Approach to Scleral Lenses'.
Shonit Jagmohan and Scott Panozza taking audience questions.
Shonit lending a hand to attendees during the practical session.
Attendees putting theory into practice applying a mini-scleral lens.
Participants taking scans of their workshop partner's eye.
Attendee looking through slit lamp before commencing mini-scleral fittings.
Participant trying out application techniques.
A participant priming their lens before inserting into partner's eye.
